The prime minister discusses Japanese initiatives in the areas of economic relations with the U.S., problems of developing countries, and defense. He describes his goal as being to make Japan contribute more to the world. Mr. Takeshita became prime minister in November 1987.

Secretary Webb talked about the need for open discussion regarding whether, and how, the U.S. can maintain commitments throughout the world. He said that commitments cannot be maintained while reducing the size of the Navy. He also called for Japan to assume more military responsibility. After his remarks he responded…

The assistant attorney general gives assurances that Attorney General Ed Meese has been very much in charge of the Justice Department. He then summarizes Justice Department efforts to combat drugs, terrorism, and obscenity.

Ambassador Nitze discusses five tasks to be pursued in the wake of the Dec. 8 signing of the INF treaty: ratification of the treaty, continued work on the START treaty, space and defense issues, non-nuclear arms, and the broader context of U.S.-Soviet relations.